Moscow will use all available means, if necessary, to protect Russian citizens in Transnistria, according to Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu.

Axar.az reports, citing Russian media, Shoigu stated that more than 220,000 Russian citizens live in Transnistria and claimed that their interests and security are under threat due to what he described as irresponsible actions by Kyiv and Chișinău.

“If necessary, Russia will take all necessary steps and use all available means to protect them in accordance with the Constitution,” Shoigu said.

He also noted that Russia is closely monitoring all possible scenarios regarding Moldova’s approach to Transnistria, including the most unpredictable developments.

The statement comes after comments by the head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, Kyrylo Budanov, regarding the possibility of Ukrainian forces taking control of Transnistria.